Measurement Computing ZonicBook 618E rev.3.4 - Manual (Page 56)

Source Output [Excitation Source] BNC Applies to eZ-Analyst Only
WARNING
When the Signal Generator is started [in eZ-Analyst] the device that is connected to
Source Output will receive excitation and could possibly cause injury to personnel. Be
aware of which device is receiving excitation and post adequate notice to keep individuals
and physical objects clear of the device.
Both the ZonicBook/618E and the WBK18 expansion modules have a sine wave-based excitation voltage source,
which can be set in frequency from 1 Hz to 5 kHz and in discrete amplitudes from 100 mVp-p to 10 Vp-p.
Continuous sine and sweep sine modes are available. Note that the Source Output feature is only applicable if
the ZonicBook/618E is using eZ-Analyst software.
The Source Output can be used as a test source for the input channels or as excitation for other system elements,
such as the amplifier for a shaker table. All source output parameters are software controlled and the actual output
signal leaves the device through a front panel BNC connector.
Detailed information on the excitation source and its operation can be found in the eZ-Analyst manual. With respect
to eZ-Analyst, the “Output Channel Setup” tab [under the Edit pull-down menu] is used to set the SOURCE
OUTPUT channel to “Active” and the Control pull-down menu can be used to turn the Signal Generator “On.”
Do not confuse excitation source with source level, as the latter term refers to transducer bias current.
Note: You can save output sine wave configuration files and open pre-saved files as discussed in the applicable
software document.
Sine Mode (Continuous Mode)
Sine mode refers to a continuously running sine wave of the selected amplitude and frequency. To configure, select
a frequency and amplitude, and then click <OK.> The selected output will begin and continue running until the
<Stop> button is clicked or the software application is terminated.
Sweep Mode
Sweep mode refers to a constant amplitude sine wave that is being swept in frequency from a selected start
frequency to a selected stop frequency over a selected sweep time duration. The frequency sweep characteristic can
be chosen to be linear or logarithmic, and is distributed among 1280 discrete steps. The transitions between steps
are continuous in phase and in amplitude.
To configure, make selections for the available parameters, and then click the <Start> button. Once a sweep is
completed, the waveform returns to its start frequency and is swept again and again until stopped by the user or until
the software application is terminated.
Output Channel Setup - Swept Sine Selected
6-8 Analog Signals 878595 ZonicBook/618E